How bad is it to sleep with your makeup on?

You come home late after a night out or fall asleep on the couch after binge-watching your favorite series. Your usual pre-bed routine seems especially daunting. Perhaps you can skip a step, but which one? Falling asleep with your makeup on can't be that bad, can it?

Although there are no definitive studies, some experts believe exposing skin to the chemicals in make-up longer than necessary leads to the breakdown of healthy collagen in your skin, contributing to fine lines.

So, what should you do if you forget to wash your face and doze off wearing make-up? Dr. Chen shares her at home remedy for treating that pimple that can show up in your mirror the next day.

"I like to apply spot therapy benzoyl peroxide — easily found at the local convenience store — and layer with some over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1 percent cream. I cover it with a spot bandage and go to sleep with it on," says Dr. Chen. "During the daytime, the same two products can be used, along with cover-up and makeup on top."

Being careful about the combination of products you put on your face can help avoid allergic reactions or breakouts, according to Dr. Chen.

"Some individuals will develop an allergic reaction to ingredients found in make-ups such as paraben and formaldehyde preservatives in moisturizers and other products, fragrances in scented products, and gold found in some shimmer-type eye shadow and face or body glitter," she says.

If you are experiencing an adverse reaction to a new product, she suggests discontinuing use and calling your doctor if the reaction does not seem to subside.

"'Waterproof' and 'water-resistant' products have a higher likelihood of clogging your pores, leading to breakouts," says Dr. Chen. "It's important to wash off this type of make-up completely, as it is generally heavier on the skin and more difficult to remove."